The release of the 2025-26 NFL schedule has ignited discussions among fans as the Tennessee Titans were completely omitted from prime-time games. Despite holding a 3-14 record for the 2024-25 campaign, there was hope that the Titans would be able to snag at least one prime-time game slot.
Despite selecting quarterback Cam Ward with the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Titans find themselves without a single prime-time slot. This decision by the NFL has raised eyebrows, especially considering the league's emphasis on showcasing emerging talent and storylines.
The Titans are not alone, though. The Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints also find themselves without prime-time games in the upcoming season. Notably, the Browns recently drafted Shedeur Sanders, while the Saints are navigating a transition at the quarterback position following Derek Carr's retirement.
Some have compared the Titans situation to teams that did receive a prime-time game. The Jacksonville Jaguars are slotted for one prime-time matchup after posting a 4-13 record. There is reason to believe that prized rookie, Travis Hunter, may have played a role in the decision from the NFL. Fanbases also play a role and teams like the New York Giants (3-14 in 2025-26) and the New England Patriots (4-13 in 2025-26) have a larger fan pool. They are considered a safer bet to draw big numbers than the Titans.
On the other side of the coin, teams like the Kansas City Chiefs are set to appear in a record-tying seven prime-time games. If that doesn't show a disparity in national exposure, then nothing does. The Chiefs schedule includes matchups against teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills, so while there may be an argument for the Chiefs having too many games, it is tough to dispute those games getting a prime-time slot.
The Titans schedule features several matchups that could have been viable candidates for prime-time. Most notably, in Week 7 the Titans welcome in the New England Patriots, marking the return of former head coach Mike Vrabel to Nashville.
While the absence from prime-time slots is notable, the NFL's flexible scheduling policy offers a glimmer of hope. If the Titans perform well during the season, there is potential for some of their games to be flexed into prime-time positions, especially in the latter part of the season.